Macomb County vet has been charged with animal cruelty

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – The Macomb County Attorney’s Office has charged a Ray Township veterinarian with animal cruelty.

On Tuesday October 11, a video was posted on YouTube showing Wayne Gilchrist beating and choking one of his dogs. Gilchrist’s son recorded the abuse and shared it online.

The action is said to have taken place in the vet’s apartment.

The Macomb County Animal Welfare Department examined the dog and found it was not injured. It was also discovered that the dog in question bit a teenager and a puppy in the house.

The prosecution examined all available information and consulted veterinary experts.

Wayne Gilchrist has been charged with a misdemeanor, animal refusal/cruelty to an animal, punishable by 93 days, $1,000, up to 200 hours of community service, or any combination of penalties.

Gilchrist’s arraignment took place on October 21, 2022 in the 42nd Circuit Court in Romeo. He was issued bail of $25,000/10% and conditions that include no animal contact, enrolling in cognitive therapy, no drugs or alcohol with testing three times a month, and no aggressive or threatening behavior.

“Michigan law does not adequately address the defendant’s actions and does not provide for more severe consequences. I would welcome improvements to Michigan’s animal cruelty law and would urge you to reach out to your legislators in the House and Senate to amend the Lansing law so that these crimes can be properly prosecuted. Animals are part of our family and anyone who sees animal abuse is encouraged to contact the local police department and report the incident,” said Macomb County Attorney Peter J. Lucido.

The preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 9:30 a.m

Previous coverage:

Prosecutors are reviewing animal abuse charges for Macomb County veterinarian

Macomb County vet could face criminal charges after video surfaced of him manhandling his dog